Steps nos 1 and 2

Steps 1 and 2. The most basic steps, musubi-dachi to musubi-dachi. This step is used in many toitsukihon and simple kumite exercises. Step 2 is the reverse of step 1.

Steps 3 and 4 (single step).

Starting with the right foot, step smartly to the right. Step 4 is the reverse of step 3. Shown here is the "one count, one step" version.

Steps 3 and 4 (continuous stepping).

Otherwise known as "half-moon stepping". Shown here is the "one count, three steps" version, but the stepping can continue ad infinitum!

Again, step 4 is the same as step 3, but backwards

Notes on steps 3 - 6

The various zig-zag steps (nos 3,4,5 & 6) are usually practiced in such a way that the koshi faces the direction of travel. The exact angle can be varied from a slight zigzag to almost 90 degrees (so that hardly any forward progress is made at all!). However there also exist much harder (but more traditional) forms of these steps in which the koshi remains facing forwards. These traditional forms can be somewhat hard on the knees, but are still worth practicing since they bring a completely different feel to the movements.

Steps 5 and 6 (single step).

Starting with the right foot, step smartly to the left. Step 6 is the reverse of step 5. Shown here is the "one count, one step" version.

Steps 5 and 6 (continuous stepping).

Shown here is the "one count, three steps" version.

Step no 7

With the left foot, step forward into keba-dachi (koshi facing right). Then pass the left foot behind, turning 270 degrees into the direction of travel, making a long step forwards. Finish by bringing the right foot up.

Step no 7 (Reverse form)

Strictly speaking step 7 and 8 have no reverse forms, but here is a backwards step 7 we practiced at the kangeiko, involving a 540 degree turn! Practice it while making a continuous chudan cut with open hands or bokuto.
P.S. If anybody can draw me a backwards step 8 (or any other more esoteric steps) I'd love to see them!

Step no 8

Step forward with the right foot, then do a 360 degrees turn on that foot, ending with a long step forward with the left foot. Keep low! Bring the right foot up into musubi-dachi to finish.
This step is best practiced alternately left and right to avoid getting dizzy!

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This page was first published September 2005 & last updated October 2005